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Champagne’s Henri Krug Passes Away at 75

Henri Krug, former director and chef de caves for Krug Champagne, one of the appellation’s most esteemed houses, died March 7, at the age of 75, reports Wine Spectator. Reports say he had been suffering from cancer.

Henri was the fifth generation overseeing Krug’s production and management, along with his younger brother Remi. The house was founded in 1843 by Johann-Joseph Krug. Though Rémy Cointreau purchased Krug in 1969 and luxury goods giant LVMH took charge in 1999, the Krug family always remained deeply involved, working with a notable degree of independence. Henri’s and Rémy’s partnership shaped the modern lineup of Krug Champagne.

Henri officially retired in 2002, but remained active with the house’s day-to-day work until 2007. Henri left the reins of Krug in the hands of his son, Olivier, director of the house since 2009, and Eric Lebel, chef de caves since 1998. Henri is survived by his brother Rémi, his wife, Odile, their five children and several grandchildren.